The Société africaine de plantations d'hévéas (SAPH) recently hosted a visit for international professionals in the rubber industry at its Bongo facility in Côte d'Ivoire. On November 7, 2026, the company showcased its industrial expertise, production capacities, and technological innovations in natural rubber production. This event was organized by the Association des professionnels du caoutchouc naturel de Côte d'Ivoire (APROMAC) as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations and International Rubber Days.
The visit allowed participants to explore the different components of SAPH's value chain, from agricultural production to industrial transformation. APROMAC President Charles-Emmanuel Yacé explained that SAPH was chosen for its significant role in Côte d'Ivoire's natural rubber production and transformation. He highlighted the company's industrial capacities and production volumes, which make it an important player in the industry.
The event drew professionals and personalities from Asia, Europe, and America, providing an opportunity to promote the Ivoirian rubber industry's performance and strengthen relationships with international partners. Yacé emphasized that the visit aimed to increase international awareness of Côte d'Ivoire's natural rubber industry capabilities and foster new collaboration prospects.
SAPH's General Director, Thierry Serres, presented the various stages of the production and transformation process, highlighting the company's investments and technical expertise. The Bongo site features a rubber plantation, nursery, research and development units, and a transformation plant with an annual production capacity of over 60,000 tons of natural rubber.
The industrial unit produces different rubber qualities meeting international client specifications, with supplies sourced from both SAPH plantations and private and village farmers. The company has implemented a raw material traceability system. Additionally, SAPH has invested in renewable energy, with a 2-megawatt solar power plant at the Bongo site, operational for about 18 months.
This solar power plant contributes to the electrical supply of the factory and serves as a model for potential replication at other SAPH industrial sites. Established nearly 70 years ago, SAPH employs around 6,700 people across its sites, with the Bongo site employing approximately 1,200 people, including over 300 directly involved in the transformation plant.
Côte d'Ivoire is the world's second-largest and Africa's largest producer of natural rubber. With its significant industrial capacities and commitment to renewable energy, SAPH continues to play a vital role in the country's rubber industry. The company's efforts to showcase its expertise and capabilities to international professionals demonstrate its dedication to collaboration and growth in the sector.
Key points
- SAPH's industrial capabilities and innovations in natural rubber production were showcased to international professionals at its Bongo facility.
